Loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at the age of eighty-five. Preceded in death in 2002 by her husband George. Kiki came to Los Angeles in 1954 at the age of nineteen from Amaliada, Greece. She settled in Inglewood with her husband and in laws Dena and Peter Ballas.

Kiki was born to Zoe and James Mandelos in a small coastal village in Skourochorou, Greece in the heart of the depression in 1934. She was the oldest of her six siblings. Kiki grew up in the bread basket of the Peloponesse surrounded by her Yiayia and Papou's olive orchards, apple groves, and vineyards. Kiki lived through the depression and WW2 during the German occupation of Greece. During this time there would be many years of struggles and challenges for her and her family.

In 1954 at the age of nineteen, Kiki married George Ballas in Amaliada. Kiki traveled to America to begin a new life and settle with her husband George in Inglewood, California. Kiki and George would have two daughters, Dena in 1954 and Zoe in 1957. They raised their children at Saint Sophia Cathedral, and enjoyed spending vacations at Palm Springs, Balboa Island, Disneyland and their Thea Maria's Farm at Lake Elsinore.

Kiki loved to cook especially for her children. Her Greek cooking was superb and her family looked forward and cherished these special meals and treats. Kiki was a devout Christian who lived her life with truth, dignity, and love. Her love for life was so great and those who knew her would say she had a significant impact on their lives and spirit.

She is survived by her two children, Dena and Zoe. Her five grandchildren, Fabian, Naomi, Nicky, Angela and Christina. Her six great grandchildren, Mary Lee, Mercedes, Zoey, Isaiah, Charlie. And preceded in death by her great granddaughter Asia. Her sisters Georgia, and Youta, and son in laws Fabian and Gary. She had many loving nieces, nephews, and friends of all ages.

Donations may be sent to The American Cancer Society, and Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, California

In light of the current public health situation there are no public funeral services. A memorial will be held for Kiki at a later date.

Arrangements under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes - Terry & Mary Harmon, Funeral Directors. Toll free (855) 628-0447.

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Obituary notice for Chapman Funeral Homes. Please visit www.chapmanfuneraldirectors.com .

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